Day 73 · March 14

A devotional for today

Today’s readings

• Old Testament: NUMBERS 21:1-22:20
• New Testament: LUKE 1:26-56
• Psalm: PSALM 57:1-11
• Proverb: PROVERBS 11:9-11

Discover

Today we come to one of the clearest pictures of Jesus in Numbers. The Israelites have been bitten. They cannot heal themselves. God provides the remedy. Look and live. Jesus later explains: “As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up.” The bronze serpent pointed forward to the cross. Sin has wounded us in a way we cannot cure ourselves. God's answer is Jesus. Then Luke announces His arrival. Look to Jesus and live.

Reflect

The Israelites could not save themselves from the serpent's bite. God provided the rescue. Sometimes we spend enormous energy trying to fix ourselves. What would happen if, instead, we simply turned our eyes toward Jesus? Where do I need to stop relying on myself and trust Him?

Fellowship

Talk with someone about this: Why do you think Jesus used the bronze serpent to explain what He would accomplish on the cross?

Prayer

Father, thank You for providing the rescue I could never provide for myself. Keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and teach me to trust Your Word as Mary did. Lord Jesus, help me not only to know Your Word but to live it. Transform my heart so that my life reflects You more each day. Amen.

Live

God's invitation is wonderfully simple: Look to Jesus. Trust Jesus. Follow Jesus. Whatever comes today, keep your eyes on Him.